Stray cattle add to Hyderabad's urban woes

HYDERABAD:

Already struggling with stray dogs, Hyderabad residents are now facing another menace as stray cattle roam busy roads, disrupting traffic and causing accidents, while municipal authorities have failed to sustain efforts to remove them.

The animals are frequently spotted across Latifabad, Badin General Bus Stop–Autobhan Road, Unit 8 and 12 routes, Khuda Hafiz Chowk and adjoining roads near Mazdoor Chowk. Residents say the animals often dart onto roads unexpectedly, forcing motorists, particularly motorcyclists, to brake suddenly, skid or collide with them. Traffic movement is also disrupted where cattle gather around garbage dumps in search of food.

Many of the animals appear malnourished, with visible wounds and insects attached to their bodies. Garbage heaps containing rotten fruit and vegetables, particularly near the Unit 12 fruit and vegetable market, have become their regular feeding grounds.

Municipal sources said that although the animals appeared ownerless, their owners often emerged when authorities attempted to impound them.